Understanding the Complexities of the Eastern Mediterranean Hydrocarbon Puzzle by Regional Security Complex Theory

Abstract

The discovered hydrocarbon reserves throughout the Eastern Mediterranean hold enormous economic promise but have also increased regional geopolitical tensions. However, the discovery of reserves has failed to advance regional cooperation in the region due to pre-existing territorial conflicts and closed security alliances. Regional Security Complex Theory (RSCT) helps this study understand how security connections in the area determine energy politics by explaining the failure of economic benefits to transcend historical conflicts. This research shows that the securitization process of hydrocarbon resources created new conflicts that generated maritime military disputes and formed special alliances. The Eastern Mediterranean Gas Forum demonstrates how security issues supplant economic advantages since it excludes Türkiye from membership, thereby impeding the creation of an all-encompassing regional energy framework. The research adds value to existing knowledge about energy governance by underscoring the influence of state and non-state forces in the region’s energy sector. According to the analysis, energy diplomacy cannot solve geopolitical conflicts because security concerns need broader political structures for resolution. The Eastern Mediterranean hydrocarbon resources will continue to be a source of regional dispute if no comprehensive solutions are implemented.

Keywords

Eastern Medditerranean, Geopolitics, Securitization, Energy, Diplomacy

Citation

Jude Alabi and Hüseyin Işıksal, “Understanding the Complexities of the Eastern Mediterranean Hydrocarbon Puzzle by Regional Security Complex Theory”, Uluslararası İlişkiler, Advanced Online Publication, 1 August 2025, pp. 1-18. DOI: 10.33458/uidergisi.1747941

Affiliations

Jude ALABI PhD Candidate, Department of Political Science and International Relations, Near East University, Nicosia E-Mail: [email protected] Orcid: 0000-0002-1682-7657

Hüseyin IŞIKSAL Professor, Department of Political Science and International Relations, Final International University, Kyrenia E-Mail: [email protected] Orcid: 0000-0002-2870-147X